Prepared by: Puguon, Vivian D.

BTVTED-2

Title: Basics of Crop Productions

Objectives: At the end of the lesson learners are able to:
Understand what is basics of crop production
Know the types, stages, factors affecting, techniques,
importance, and advantages of crop production

I. Introduction
Crop production is a branch of agriculture that deals with the production of crops
for food and fiber. It involves practices such as soil preparation, sowing, and crop
growth. The main goal of soil management for agriculture is to create favorable
conditions for good crop growth, seed germination, emergence of young plants, root
growth, plant development, grain formation and harvest.
Adopting the best crop management practices can significantly improve crop
productivity, leading to greater yields with improved quality. These practices are crucial
as they not only ensure the availability of food and fiber but also play as significant role
in maintaining the balance of our ecosystem.
In essence the basics crop production and its importance lie in its ability to
provide food. Contribute to the economy, and maintain environmental balance.

II. Types of Crop Production

A. Subsistence farming- a type of farming where nearly all of the crops or livestock
raised are used to maintain the farmer and the farmers family, leaving little, if
any, surplus for sale or trade. The primary goal of this type of farming is to
provide enough food and other necessities to sustain the farmers and their
families, rather than to generate surplus crops for trade or sale. This form of
farming generally occurs on smallholdings and aims at fulfilling all or almost all
the needs of the farmer his family.
 B. Commercial Farming- It involves the production of crops for sale in the market,
i.e., for commercial purposes. These farms are typically larger scale operations
that make extensive use of modern technologies and farming methods to
maximize yield and efficiency. The main objective of commercial farming is to
make profit.

III. Stages of Crop Production

1. Soil Preparation- The preparation of soil is the first step before growing a crop. One
of the most importance task in agriculture is to turn the soil and loose it.
Activities for soil preparation:
 Ploughing; The process of loosening and turning of the soil is called tilling or
ploughing. This is done by using a plough. Plough is made of wood or iron.
 Watering: The process of giving water to the field to make the dry soil wet before
ploughing.
 Levelling: Flattering of the soil after ploughing and watering. The field is levelled
for sowing as well as for irrigation purpose.
2. Sowing or seed selection- Sowing is the most important part of crop production.
Before sowing, good quality seeds are selected. Sowing is scattering of seeds on the
earth or field after soil is prepared for cultivation.
3. Adding manure and fertilizers
The substance which are added to the soil in the form if nutrients for the healthy
growth of plants. Manure is an organic substance obtained from the decomposition of
plant or animal wastes. Fertilizer is chemical substance which are rich in a particular
nutrient. Examples of fertilizers are urea, ammonium sulphurate, super phosphate,
potash, NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium).
4. Irrigation
The supply of water to crops at different intervals. The time and frequency of
irrigation varies from crop to crop, soil to soil and season to season.
Importance- Water is a vital for growth of plants. And there can be no plants or crops if
they do not have access to water in some form. It is, thus, crucial to supply water to
crops and plants in time as per their need.
5. Weeding and pest control
In a field many other undesirable plants may grow naturally along with the crop.
These undesirable plants are called weeds. The removal of weeds is called weeding.
Weeding is necessary since weeds compete with the crop plants for water, nutrients,
space and light. Thus, they affect the growth of the crop. Weeds also controlled by
using certain chemicals called weedicides, like 2,4-D. These are sprayed in the fields to
kill the weeds. they do not damage the crops. The weedicides are diluted with the water
to extent required and sprayed in the fields with a sprayer.
6. Harvesting
Harvesting of a crop is an important task. The cutting of crop after it is mature is
called harvesting. In harvesting, crops are pulled or cut close to the ground. Harvesting
in our country is either done manually by sickle or by a machine called harvester.
In the harvested crop, the grain seeds need to be separated from the chaff. This
process is called threshing. This is carried out with the help of a machine called
combine which is in fact a combined harvester and thresher.
7. Storage
Storage of produce is an important task. If the crop grains to be kept for longer
time, they should be safe from moisture, insects, rats, and microorganisms. Farmers
store grains in jute bags or metallic bins. However, large scale storage of grains is done
in silos and granaries to protect them from the pests like rats and insects.

IV. Factors Affecting Crop Production

Several factors can affect crop production. These can be classified into the
following categories:
1. Climatic Factors: These include rainfall, temperature, light, humidity, wind, and
solar radiation. Changes in any of these factors can significantly affect the growth and
yield of crops. For example, rainfall is one of the most important factors that influence
the vegetation of a place.
2. Edaphic Factors: These are related to the soil. Soil fertility, pH level, texture,
structure, and water-holding capacity can all impact crop production.
3. Biotic Factors: These involve living organisms that interact with the crop. Pests,
diseases, and weeds can negatively affect crop growth and yield.
4. Physiographic Factors: These include the physical features of the land, such as
topography and altitude. The slope and orientation of land can influence water drainage
and sunlight exposure, affecting crop growth.
5. Socio-Economic Factors: These involve human activities and decisions, such as
farming practices, technological advancements, government policies, and market
conditions.
6. Genetic Factors: The inherent genetic makeup of a crop variety determines its
potential for growth and yield. Some varieties may be more resistant to certain pests or
diseases, or more tolerant of specific climatic conditions.
7. Technological Factors: This includes agricultural practices and managerial
decisions. The use of modern farming techniques and technologies can significantly
improve crop yield.
Each of these factors plays a crucial role in crop production and can significantly
influence the growth, development, and yield of crops.

V. Techniques in Crop Production

Traditional farming techniques have been the backbone of agriculture for centuries.
They rely on age-old methods passed down through generations and emphasize
manual labor and a deep understanding of natural processes. Farmers using traditional
methods work in harmony with nature. An example of a traditional farming technique is
crop rotation, a practice dating back to ancient civilizations that involves planting
different crops in succession on the same piece of land. This can prevent soil depletion,
reduce pest and disease pressure, and improve overall soil health. In addition, crop
rotation is a farming practice that involves systematically planting different crops in the
same field over a period of time. The purpose of crop rotation is to improve soil fertility,
control pest and diseases, and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
On the other hand, modern farming techniques represent the use of advanced
technology and scientific methods in agriculture to increase productivity and efficiency.
It includes practices like the use of genetically modified organisms, synthetic fertilizers,
pesticides, and advanced machinery. Modern farming aims to maximize yield and profit,
often on a large scale. It seeks to overcome the limitations of traditional farming by
using technologies that can increase crop yield, improve crop quality, and reduce labor
intensity.
Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between traditional
and modern farming techniques often depends on various factors such as the scale of
farming, available resources, and specific farming goals.

VI. Importance of Sustainable Crop Production

Sustainable crop production- refers to the cultivation of crops in a manner that meets
the present needs for food, fiber, and other agricultural products, while also ensuring the
long-term viability of agricultural systems and minimizing negative impacts on the
environment. It involves implementing practices and strategies that promote ecological
balance, conserve natural resources, protect biodiversity, and support the well-being of
farmers and local communities.
The concept of sustainable crop production encompasses various principles and
considerations, including:
1. Environmental Stewardship: Sustainable crop production aims to minimize the use
of synthetic inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides, reduce soil erosion, conserve water
resources, and protect air and water quality. It promotes the conservation of biodiversity
and the preservation of natural habitats.
2. Soil Health and Fertility: Sustainable practices focus on building and maintaining
healthy soils through techniques such as organic matter management, cover cropping,
crop rotation, and minimal soil disturbance. This helps enhance soil structure, nutrient
cycling, and water-holding capacity.
3. Water Management: Sustainable crop production emphasizes efficient water use,
irrigation management, and water conservation practices to minimize water waste and
ensure the sustainable use of water resources.
4. Integrated Pest Management: Sustainable farming techniques prioritize the use of
integrated pest management strategies, which involve monitoring pest populations,
using biological control methods, promoting natural predators, and utilizing pest-
resistant crop varieties. This reduces reliance on chemical pesticides and minimizes
their impact on the environment.
5. Social and Economic Equity: Sustainable crop production considers the social and
economic well-being of farmers and local communities. It promotes fair labor practices,
supports rural development, and encourages equitable access to resources and
markets.
6. Climate Resilience: Sustainable practices aim to enhance the resilience of
agricultural systems to climate change by adopting climate-smart techniques, such as
agroforestry, conservation agriculture, and climate-adaptive crop varieties.

By adopting sustainable crop production practices, farmers can contribute to

environmental conservation, ensure the long-term productivity of agricultural systems,
promote food security, and support the well-being of both present and future
generations.

There are numerous benefits associated with implementing sustainable farming

practices. Here are some of the key advantages:
1. Environmental Conservation: Sustainable practices help preserve natural
resources, reduce soil erosion, and protect water quality. They promote biodiversity
conservation and minimize the negative impact on ecosystems.
2. Improved Soil Health: Sustainable farming methods focus on building and
maintaining healthy soils. This leads to improved soil structure, nutrient cycling, and
water-holding capacity, resulting in higher crop productivity and resilience.
3. Water Conservation: Sustainable practices emphasize efficient water management,
reducing water usage, and minimizing runoff and water pollution. This is crucial in
regions facing water scarcity or drought conditions.
4. Reduced Chemical Usage: Sustainable farming aims to minimize the use of
synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. This reduces the risk of chemical
contamination in the environment and promotes safer food production.
5. Enhanced Biodiversity: Sustainable practices support the conservation of
biodiversity by providing habitats for beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife. This
helps maintain a balanced ecosystem and natural pest control.
6. Climate Change Mitigation: Sustainable farming methods can contribute to
mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sequestering carbon
in soils, and promoting carbon-neutral practices.
7. Healthier Food: Sustainable farming practices often result in healthier and more
nutritious food. By avoiding or minimizing the use of chemicals, the quality of crops and
their nutritional content can be improved.
8. Economic Viability: Sustainable farming practices can lead to cost savings,
improved farm profitability, and long-term economic sustainability. They can also
enhance market access and consumer demand for sustainably produced products.
By adopting sustainable farming practices, farmers can contribute to
environmental conservation, protect their own livelihoods, and meet the increasing
demand for sustainable and responsibly produced food.

Sources:
 BYJU’S, Food and agriculture Organization, University of Nexada, Reno
Extension
FAQ, UNFCC, World Bank, USDA, University of California Agriculture and
Natural Resources, Cornell University.
IBM, Greentumble, Utopia, Farming Genius, Harvard Business Review
UNGCC, SpringerLink, (Research Gate)……
Farming Thing, Scale Climate Action, To Agriculture
Agri Learner, e-Agri, Agriculture Wale, IntechOpen, Food and Agriculture
Organization.

Short Quiz: Choose your answer surely. (encircle)

1. This is a farming technique that have d) Genetic Factors
been the backbone of agriculture for
centuries. 5. This is a type of farming where its
goal is to provide enough food and other
a) Traditional farming technique necessities to sustain the farmers and
b) Modern farming technique their families.
c) Agriculture farming technique
d) Old farming technique a) Commercial farming
b) Subsistence farming
2. This is a farming technique that use c) Production farming
an advanced technology and scientific d) Supply farming
methods in agriculture to increase
productivity and efficiency. 6. This is a type of farming that involves
the production of crops for sale in the
a) Traditional farming technique market.
b) Modern farming technique
c) Agriculture farming technique a) Commercial farming
d) Old farming technique b) Subsistence farming
c) Production farming
3. These factors is related to the soil d) Supply farming
fertility, texture, ph level and others.
7. In the soil preparation this is the
a) Biotic factors process of loosening the soil and turning
b) Edaphic factors of the soil.
c) Climatic factors
d) Genetic Factors a) Ploughing
b) Watering
4. These factors include rainfall, c) Levelling
temperature, humidity, wind, and solar d) Loosening
radiation.
8-10. Give at least 3 stages of crop
a) Biotic factors production, in any order.
b) Edaphic factors
c) Climatic factors